So I guess there's that...

Vonnegut. Time and time again I've made reference to him in my ramblings. I've quoted him. I've praised him. I've even thought about doing my Ph.d on something relating to his writing. And yet, I never actually tried writing like him. I think, as my next project, I'll attempt to write a short story (or perhaps novella) using aspects of his own writing style. Of course I would never rip the man off completely; you must respect the dead. I think it'll be interesting to see whether or not I'll be able to mix my own personal style (if I can even find one) with aspects of Vonnegut. It will certainly be a feet if I can finish this, especially since I've never actually finished a story; probably the reason for my feeble attempt at writing poetry.

Today I officially ended my first year of teaching. It felt surreal. No doubt I poured hours and hours into my final year at Towson in some ridiculous attempt to perfect the art of teaching. 'Any teacher who says they are perfect at teaching or knows everything should retire' is what our cohort leader said; how true. Reflecting today on my way into work, I realized how far I have come this year alone. How far I have come since Kate and I opened those doors of the auditorium into the sunlight after receiving our ticket into the 'real world'. It was as though the outside was welcoming us with open arms saying: 'C'mon in. You've worked hard. Don't worry, we'll take good care of you'. To some extent it has taken very good care of us--well, me for that matter--I haven't spoken to Kate and the rest of my classmates nearly as much as I would have if I stayed in Maryland or even the States. For me, I can say, the real world has been kind. True, it had its ups and downs this past year. But what's life without a little rocking of the boat? With the rough times came some incredible experiences, both in and out of the classroom. To wrap up this rant, 2008/2009 was, by far, one of the best years of my life. And while I was miles away from most of the ones I love, I realised, through that distance, that I have some incredible people back at home. It made it rough at times being here, but I think--no, I know-- this entire experience is something that I will take with me forever. No matter what.

With that said, I just became quite anxious, in a not positive way, about going back to Maryland; or more specifically, Towson. I realized after speaking to a friend of mine from college that most people have moved on since I last saw them in December/January. The ones who I always thought would be there have now seemingly moved away from that comfort zone and on to starting their own lives. Then again, I suppose I shouldn't get upset; they just did exactly what I did, only a year later. This is what happens when we grow up and it needs to be kept in mind.

As Carolyn brought to my attention a few posts back, I need a new name for my blog. Any suggestions?

And finally, to wrap this up, I have just one last thing to say: I am, without a doubt, whole heartedly, stupidly, and irrevocably, in love; for the first time ever. So I guess there's that... ;)